Ukraine is grappling with a significant deficit of Patriot PAC-3 interceptor missiles, the sole air defense mechanism currently employed to counter Russian Iskander-M ballistic missiles. Reports indicate that by early July 2026, Ukraine had depleted its stock of PAC-3 missiles, rendering it vulnerable to recent attacks involving 23 to 24 ballistic missiles. Lockheed Martin manufactures only around 500 to 600 PAC-3 missiles each year, with an expected minimal resupply of fewer than 20 interceptors from allied nations. In addition, Ukraine is advancing the development of its own Freya interceptor as it refines its long-term production strategies.
